Giants 6, Phillies 5

Joe Panik no longer is the wide-eyed rookie, worried about proving he belongs in the majors, learning about a new pitcher seemingly every game and trying to be the solution to a revolving-door position.

On Saturday, Panik continued his hot streak by delivering an RBI single during a game-tying, four-run rally and scoring the game-deciding run in the Giants 6-5, come-from-behind victory over the Philadelphia Phillies.

“He’s playing well,” Giants manager Bruce Bochy said. “It’s fun to see how this kid has gotten settled in. He’s thrown out some good at-bats.”

Few match Panik’s leadoff triple in the eighth inning off left-hander Antonio Bastardo, which enabled Panik to score on a Gregor Blanco single one batter later.

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That completed a turnaround from a 5-1 deficit and paved the way for the Giants to win for just the second time in eight games.

Panik said “it felt good” to be in the middle of the things offensively. It feels even better, he said, being able to concentrate on baseball and not extraneous things.

“When you first come up, everything is new to you,” Panik said. “Pitchers you’ve never seen before, the atmosphere, everything off the field. Once you settle in, you start to get a feel for everything. I feel like I’ve really hit my stride.”

Who’s to argue? Panik banged out two hits Saturday and is 16 for 39 in his past 11 games.

Panik has upped his average to .274 during that time and gained the trust of Bochy – and, who knows, perhaps general manager Brian Sabean – that second base no longer is a daily concern.

“It’s all about getting settled in up here and having that confidence,” Bochy said, “and he does have that.”

To that end, Panik has earned the right to be the every-day second baseman, at least through the end of this season.

It wasn’t long ago that the Giants were thought to be interested in trading for a veteran second baseman such as the Phillies Chase Utley.

That deadline passed more than two weeks ago. Perhaps it’s not a coincidence that Panik has flourished in the wake.

For a while, it appeared as if the Giants were headed to another disheartening loss.

Then, a Pablo Sandoval infield pop up turned into a fielder’s choice and a throwing error when Phillies first baseman Ryan Howard misplayed the ball and Utley fired wide in an attempt to get the out at second.

And a Panik chopper off the plate stayed in the air long enough for him to beat the throw to first and pinch-hitter Blanco’s soft liner found a safe landing spot. Before long, the Giants had cobbled together a four-run rally and erased a 5-1 deficit.

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Most important, the Giants received help up and down the lineup.

“Hopefully … we’ll get back to where we are, a team that gets contributions from everybody throughout the lineup,” Bochy said.

The team effort helped offset an off day for starter Tim Hudson, who lasted only four innings.

He said he felt “out of synch,” for whatever reason, from the start.

“It was a good win for us,” Hudson said. “It’s kind of tough to get put in a 5-1 hole, but our guys kept battling. They showed a lot of resiliency. I didn’t hold up my end of the bargain but everybody else did. That’s what it takes to win sometimes.”

— Sergio Romo notched his first save since June 20th. Overall, he has 23 on the season. Bochy said Romo was the “freshest” guy in the pen, and it was time to give closer Santiago Casilla a day off.

— Michael Morse collected his second triple of the season in the second inning. That matches his career-high (2010). He has six triples in his career. Morse also hammered two doubles and walked in his three other plate appearances.

— Matt Duffy replaced shortstop Brandon Crawford as part of a double switch in the fifth, at the same time Hudson was removed from the game. Bochy said the move was strategically based and had nothing to do with Crawford’s recent struggles.

— Jeremy Affeldt notched the victory in relief. Bochy said he was impressed by how well Affeldt bounced back less than 24 hours after Affeldt allowed a two-run, game-tying home run in a game the Giants eventually lost.

I gave up on the game after we couldn’t do anything in the bottom of the 5th. I was happily surprised by the comeback.

channelclemente

There went the glue, and the heart.

channelclemente

You and several million other people.

Michael Scott

I’ve never been much for doing AB by AB, inning by inning proclamations. Then I don’t have to hide when things go the other way.

Leo the Lip

40 games left
22 on the road
18 @ home

“It’s what you do with those *other* 40 that’s important” … … …

channelclemente

I try to look at the quality of play. With me, it’s not so much about the win, it’s about the kind of game they play and that the give it all, hustle, and play heads up ball. What I saw last night, and through the first 5 innings just wasn’t that. It was something that should shame a 2 time WS winner. They turned it around 6-9.

I came to the conclusion years ago that baseball is a lot more about learning to lose than win. But you’re supposed to respect the game above everything else, in either case. Exit soapbox stage left.

Leo the Lip

we see you Ryan Braun
2R HR off of Opie

MLBSF

Giants beat a team that is a staggering 15 games under .500 and in dead last place.
And there’s nothing but talk about how good the Giants are.

LOL. Too funny. smh

Michael Scott

*Brewers up 2-0, top of the 4th. *Could* be 3 down in the loss column by the end of the night.
* Back in the second W/C spot right now.
*Down 5 to 1, 5th inning, no outs, runners 2nd and 3rd. *Still* down 5-1 going to the bottom of the inning. Top of the 6th six Phillies bat, Lopez gets Brown to roll out with the bases loaded. *Still* 5-1. Didn’t seem like it at the time, but as our dear trolliots are wont to say:
“Game over!”

Leo the Lip

Not really they are laughing at your 2 predictions.
*Giants will lose today
*The Giants will be swept by the Phills

paul in p.v.

Damn. ;o)

totalfan62

Good game brewers at dodgers. 3-1 Brew Crew bottom 8th.

Michael Scott

Wonder how much of Goober’s bucks he took at dominoes?

Surf Maui

Dodger fans doing the wave– give me a break!

Darkrose

Yes, exactly. It’s one thing if they lose, but I’m so tired of watching the same thing over and over. Michael Morse, of all people, gets a triple with no one out, and the Giants couldn’t even GIDP to drive him in! That’s just embarrassing, and I didn’t want to listen to more of it.

Surf Maui

you can only beat who you are playing that day

Lunch_Box

That’s like saying the sun rises in the east. It’s just natural for them.

Michael Scott

Maybe next time you’ll wait a little longer before you watch cartoons.

Lunch_Box

Sometimes I miss Uribe. Will always be glad for what he did for us in 2010.

MLBSF

True. The Giants have a chance against the horrible teams and no chance against anyone who is at least .500 or over.

This upcoming road trip will be tough. Yes it’s the Cubbies, but they can hit and their bullpen ain’t too shabby. And then there is Washington. I’m always hoping that Matt Williams will pull a stupid rookie manager move that Bochy will exploit, but he’s doing a great job there so far.

Darkrose

…ooookay. I guess that was a jab at my age?

Lunch_Box

Glad the bullpen and offense did their job and showed up today after last night’s heartache.

Get the win tomorrow, boys!

Leo the Lip

DODGERS LOSE 3-2

MLBSF

The Giants will definitely get swept in Washington.
Washington = over .500 team

Michael Scott

I don’t think that the deserters will last too long in the icy waters. I’m debating throwing them some life rafts but they make swell beds for watching the games.

Michael Scott

Nah, just a light tap, no biggie. I was ready to watch “Prunes and the Senior Citizen: No Laughing Matter”

Leo the Lip

LOL espn 3 Giant game highlights

Howard 2 Rbi
Blanco’s hit
Romo and Sizemore

Leo the Lip

So true!

BALDHEADSLIK1

Lester is a great pitcher but there is no way i trade Cespedes for him that late in the season, i said this the same day of the trade. When was the last time a WS contender traded their heart of the order guy at the trade deadline……it just doesnt happen for obvious reasons, now the A’s cant score.Chemistry has waned somewhat inside of the clubhouse because they miss him. I think a trade of this magnitude would of benefited Oakland a lot more if it was made during the off season right b4 spring training.BHS1

Michael Scott

Well, the all-night Chatterhead marathon should be starting soon so I’ll retire for the night. Up early to get the pork smoking for the Cal-Tex-Mex tacos…

MLBSF

Nobody cares. Believe you me

MLBSF

Yea. I don’t know why you make that kind of trade when things are going well for the team. You trade for someone who plays every five games for your every day guy. They definitely haven’t been the same since.

BALDHEADSLIK1

Samarjda is good but overrated but i think him, Kazmir,Grey, and Hamels with Cespedes still there is WS worthy.

BALDHEADSLIK1

LoL Gary Brown in center for Fresno poor kid might never sniff a big league dugout.

BALDHEADSLIK1

Yep im watching Fresno V Colorado minor league ball, didnt see the big boys play today so this is my fix for a Saturday night.

Matthew

Great day at the beautiful yard…catching up on my reading. I’m a bit confused, though. Today WAS a great day, right? Giants with a great comeback win. Dodgers lose. Big days for Morse, Blanco, Affeldt, Romo, and a few others… And masterful work by Bochy.

We ARE happy, right? It’s OK to actually be happy about today and enjoy the fruits of victory, right?

Thought so. Way to go, boys.

Ryan

Pirates lose, Cardinals losing…

Such a perfect day, you keep me hanging on…

Way to bring home the win and glad you were part of such a perfect day.

carmot

Sustainable? No.
But here are some metrics for Joe Panik, last 11 games:

G 11, GS 10, PA 42, 16 H, 2 2B, 3B, 3 RBI, 3 BB, 6 SO, 5 R

That is a .410 AVG and .487 OBP. His BAbip is near .500.

Ryan

at least he got a nice signing bonus. I’m guessing around 2 mil or a shade under.

Ryan

High BABIP year and he’s a .300 hitter. Low BABIP and he’s around .250.

carmot

I thought of you, being able to see a great game today. A comeback. A win. And at HOME! I had another friend there and she was texting me throughout. You know, she’d fit right in here at GE (kinda)… “Can Bum pinch hit now?” and “Philly teammates saying “Don’t Panik. Oh wait, better Panik now.” LOL.

Hope you enjoyed the game. Notice any interesting things we might not have seen covered on tv? Cheers.

Darkrose

Ah, okay! I was confused, because I’m old enough that half the guys on the Giants could be my kids.

carmot

I only saw only one response from yesterday, but did you see my comment about Panik w/ runners on 2B? Blanco, faster, he hit into the 5.5 hole. Sandoval, slower, he hit to RF. I’d say I’ve seen many indicators of some excellent bat control, like this. His BABIP can likely remain very good.

People often talk about how a batter needs to adjust back after pitchers adjust to him. I’m not so sure. What about once he’s facing guys’ stuff, that he’s seen before? Maybe, he’s a good one. Just maybe, a REAL good one?

BALDHEADSLIK1

Jeezus did he? Party at GBs crib.

Vegas Giants Fan*

$1.45 M.

Vegas Giants Fan*

Vanilla Fudge or Supremes?

pacman68

No wonder Sabean hates him.

pacman68

Billy Beane is his own worst enemy.

Vegas Giants Fan*

At the time I thought the Giants selecting Brown was kind of strange. All of the talk at the time was the Giants needing an outfielder with power. Brown didn’t fit that mold. Maybe he’ll get a chance with another team.

pacman68

Keep Duffy at SS. Crawford needs to get his head together.

Vegas Giants Fan*

Crawford could use a day off and Duffy needs more that a few AB’s here and there to stay sharp. However, Crawford is the starting shortstop and I’ll take his defense over Duffy’s in a race for a playoff spot. Panik’s play may make it difficult for Duffy to get AB’s. Finally, a nice problem to have at 2B.

carmot

I dunno what’s up w Craw. I was thrilled to see Panik + Duffy turn a beautiful DP behind Affeldt. One of the key moments IMO. Duffy looked smooooth on his transfer, footwork, and throw. Liked that. One of the memorable moments of this great game, to me at least.

carmot

What’s his value right now? Just a change of scenery swap? I dunno. Maybe Jarrett Parker (same draft year?) outranks him now? Gosh, without that one SJ A+ season, he’d really been hanging low, huh?

Ryan

The Cubbies just traded Brett Jackson to the Diamondbacks for some reliever prospect. He used to rank relatively high in prospect lists than starting having trouble making contact.

Ryan

Blackburn’s outing today is probably the best start by a Giants farmhand all year.

carmot

I’ve been reformulating my opinion on Blackburn. He’s really putting some great stuff together. That was awesome!

carmot

Talk about a curious trade, you see the HOU – MIA Cosart/Marisnick deal? Talk about selling Jarred Cosart when his value is REALLY low, wish we could’ve swung for him instead of Peavy. 56%+ GB rate, 94-ish FB, nice cutter, and 15+ mph velo separation.

Then, there’s Jake Marisnick. He’s already accumulated about 1.0 WAR. How HOU had figured that one out, is kinda remarkable. If it sustains.

Bapah

13th Floor Elevators

12xu

Thanks for the stats. 3BB in 11 games? That’s downright Barry Bonds-like compared to the current roster. 🙂

I know that he hasn’t been up for very long but Panik kinda reminds me of Bill Mueller, has a nice swing and follow-through. But I think Mueller was a switch-hitter. And he’s Mr. Cool. After he got that RBI chopper in the 6th he didn’t even smile or seem excited.

12xu

And as somebody pointed out a couple nights ago, needs to cut that mess of hair.

MLBSF

Hopefully if you’re reading this Lefty you change your mind and sign back up with your account. smh

Vegas Giants Fan*

Tremendous outing for Blackburn. I’m looking forward to his next start. Bet he had that 12-6 curveball of his working all night. Good stuff.

Eleuthero

I don’t know why Lefty left. I’ve been on the board for about one full season (end of last year, all of this). I can see the end of my involvement soon but not because of any spats with other posters. It’s just that baseball is a game and there’s only a certain amount of analysis I want to do on one game or one string of games. One finds oneself repeating the same analysis five or ten times.

Ultimately, baseball is an idle amusement for me and I enjoyed playing it but at the end of the day it’s a small part of my life. If the Giants crap out I won’t cry in my beer and if they win the WS I’ll have about 2 days of euphoria. I’ve been on a lot of blogs discussing economic and social issues. I’m just blogged out and want to spend my time in a different way. Maybe Lefty is blogged out, too. What’s her ostensible reason for leaving?

DrLefty

I didn’t “leave.” I went to Sonoma County for the day to visit my daughter. Heard most of the game in the car. Can’t post comments on the blog from my iPhone. By the time I got home it was late and I was tired.

DrLefty

Nice to be missed!

DrLefty

I was really excited to see that. Send him to the AFL and see him in spring training! I like Blackburn.

DrLefty

Well, it took a few innings, but you got to see a fun one. Thought of you and yours!

DrLefty

It’s an interesting situation. If the Giants keep floundering around and then slide out of contention even for a wild card spot, then I think it will be “whatever” at SS–give Craw more days off, play Duffy, play Adrianza.

But what if the Giants DO make a move, and what if Crawford keeps hitting sub-Mendoza against righties and Duffy shows some aptitude at the plate? Crawford’s defense or Duffy’s hitting in a playoff chase? Hmmmm.

PerSpeier35

I’m surprised no one put out an APB on you Lefty, or I guess a BOLO for us NCIS fans.

Leo the Lip

What was the post above you all about, lol.

Before your outing you let us know that you and the Mr were joining up with lefty daughter and her BF (Rhonert Park) amd having a fab day in Napa’s wine country. A few of us shouted back “have a great time”

It was probably the Thurs/Friday post where Mr Sarcastic and Matthew told us they were going to games. (Fri/Sat)

Napa’s a blast. BALD1 and his bride went a few weeks back.

Cheers!

Leo the Lip

Stamos and Crazy Horse wear their coiffs just fine….back in the day Oscar Gamble had THE Fro..

Notsodamus

Sung to the tune of Jim Dandy:

Joe Panik to the two hole
Joe Panik to the twooooo hooole
Joe Panik to the two hole,

Go, Joe Panik,
Go, Joe Panik

Joe Panik had a coach named Boch
So slow to change you’d think he just smoked a rooooooach
Joe Panik he’s the kind of guy
Who’d help Buster get more RBIIIIIIII

Joe Panik to the rescue
Joe Panik to the reeeescuuuue……

OK, I’ve officially lost it. If Hacker is still hitting second today, I’m done. See y’all next year.

Leo the Lip

He/they seem to play better on the road imo. Too many family life issues and functions to take part in PLUS the Giants seem to require their players to attend neighborhood playground openings and such and that grinds them to a nub.

Leo the Lip

Same old same old. The blog, KNBR callers and the Twooter World were on the proverbial ledge for 95 prcent of the game. Chef Scott and Snorkel and Surf Maui played Red Cross and did CPR.

Glad you had fun!

Leo the Lip

Nolan Ryans kid…

Leo the Lip

Can’t leave NOW.

ROOT for the Laundry!

DrLefty

We actually ended up in/around Healdsburg in Sonoma County. Stopped by a winery outside of town (Armida–one of my favorite spots there), drove the kids around downtown Healdsburg so they could see it for a future day trip, and took them to dinner at the restaurant at the Coppola winery north of Healdsburg. Very nice day and we got to listen to the game as we went to and through Sonoma.

Notsodamus

Love you Leo. You are not only the king of this board and now the jungle, but of the double and triple entendre.

DrLefty

So in Baggarly’s post-game story last night, he seemed to have the 2015 Giants all figured out:

–spend all the money signing Pablo
–sign back both Peavy AND Vogelsong
–let Romo walk while Casilla stays the closer
–move Timmy to the bullpen
–move Buster to 1B
–move Belt to LF
–give Panik the everyday 2B job

How many of those do you all think will actually happen?

Oh, and I don’t know if you saw that Hector Sanchez got hit in the face with a foul ball last night (as catcher) and had to be helped off the field by his Fresno teammates. Not good, folks.

DrLefty

From the Grizzlies’ game story. (That’s another 2015 problem solved. Kontos will be out of options and back full-time with the Giants.)

Mighty George: Fresno RH George Kontos owns the lowest ERA among all minor league pitchers since May 4 who have made at least 19 appearances. Kontos is 3-1 with a 0.31 ERA over that span, having allowed one earned run in 291/3 innings.

Did you ever thing you’d be making amends for not blogging on a sports blog? You’ve arrived.

channelclemente

It’s going to chew on the Dodger’s fanbase, but losing Uribe is a blow I’m not sure they can compensate for.

HaakAway

Yeah … hope “Nastro-Notso” was exaggerating as happens here. I doubt that anyone here stops being a fan so easily. Most of us are Addicts.

Notsodamus

Thank you lord. Boch has seen the light! No more solo homers for Hunter, only twos and threes (and fours when Mad pitches)! Hallelujah! Seriously, this line-up is a goodie. Hope it’s for real.

Ryan

I’ll hook you up:

8 IP, 3 H, 0 R, 0 BB, 11K (2.87 ERA)

Ryan

keep hopin’

sevensixtwo

According to the Chron, Hector finished the inning after getting hit last night, and was taken out only for precaution…..Do you have a link to the story you’re referencing?

Notsodamus

Not to mention Ryu, and whoever is next. Not that I would wish for such a thing. Don’t want to mess up our boys good karma, but karma may be exactly what is catching up to the Dodgers. Knock on wood. Twice.

HaakAway

I like them all except losing a very good 1B and gaining a weak LF. Why shift two guys into new spots? Do you think Buster could hold down LF as well as Belt or Morse can? If so, then the Giants only lose one defensive asset. I love Posey at catcher but look how bad the injuries are getting there!

Notsodamus

Ahhh! Got me. Such a tease.

channelclemente

Mainliners.

channelclemente

Don’t encourage him, he may go into a tailspin.

totalfan62

A very enjoyable habit, most of the time!

Notsodamus

Nos tro good.

Panda Puffs are Delicious

Thank you Ryan, that’s a mighty fine line.

NamelessBob

How did you like the Oscars and props? Spend any pool time?

Notsodamus

you are correct sir. No can do. Actually tried post ’02, and not even Felipe could stop the DT’s.

MLBSF

OK my bad Lefty. You know how much I hate accidentally creating controversy and speculation.

Matthew

Cry in your beer? By the tone of your writing, I would have pegged you as crying in your fine aged scotch while puffing on a fine Cuban, wearing a Hefner while petting your Afghan, Bach in the background.

NoShame09

Belt, never in left field. If your considering moving him to left, might as well trade him, because buster IS going to moved to first in the near future with the rise of Susac and their willingness to burn hector at the stake. He (Belt) is the perfect fit for a first baseman. This year is obviously a wash, he obviously has a sensitive psyche so I hope his injuries don’t plague him throughout the offseason and into next season. But once he knew that he was here to stay he was raking the ball and his glove is tops in the NL in the field at first. You down grade him as a player if you put him anywhere else. They have a real problem to deal with in the off season regarding buster and belt. My money’s on belt is dealt.

I feel that Timmy would have been in the bullpen already had he not thrown that no hitter. He’s like a faulty outlet that you don’t want to mess with, sometimes it’s electric and sometimes it’s, well you know. That being said, he should be in the pen. Perhaps belt for a starting arm or a couple of solid relievers?

Not resigning sandavol would be a huge mistake. And while his lack of performance earlier in the year seemed to be somewhat of a blessing (because we were going to resign him regardless) his recent surge with the glove and his mediocrity with the bat will get him his “hunter pence” money.

All in all, as Marty would say “that’s baseball” not counting our guys out, because over the past few years whenever you do they make you eat your words while they sip champagne. But things look bleak and there are a lot of questions to be answered.

Notsodamus

It is hard to capture inflection and sarcasm in the written word. You are either a very serious fellow, or not. I enjoy reading your musings either way. Cheers to you sir.

HaakAway

Our motto: “Hello my name is ________ . I’m a Giant-aholic.”

channelclemente

We are finding some ‘pearls’ at AA.

pacman68

Baggarly has been reading my posts. But he also needs to sign another outfielder and some bench help.

MLBSF

Not bad.
Someone get me on record
smh

Notsodamus

Yes, and I’m liking the Nastro-Notso moniker. Very clever. May have to adopt that. Thanks.

Gotta win today; if not yesterday’s great comeback win will mean less. Let’s have it Timmy–give us a quality start. Dodgers can’t get swept at home, can they? Well…they’ve lost five of six to the Brewers, and today it’s Peralta (who shut us down) vs. Haren. Could be a big day for us.

MLBSF

On second thought Lincecum is pitching.
It’s not looking good after all.

sevensixtwo

Uribe is having another good year, but the doyers have Justin Turner to fill in. He’s not the caliber player ol’ Juan is, but he’s a capable hitter; he hit .280 last year for the Mets. Turner’s D may not measure up either, as suggested by his .958 fielding percentage in 289 innings. Uribe’s getting pretty long in the tooth, so perhaps it takes him a while for the hammy to heal.

Efrain

Read that post last night, think AB has a few good points that I think need to happen and a few that I see playing out differently:

– I disagree with signing Pablo long term and those reasons have been spoken about at length
– I say bring back Peavy for sure, see how Voglesong plays the rest of the year before thinking he has fully turned the corner.
– Agree letting Romo walk
– TL needs to be moved to pen, he is not the same pitcher, will not “figure it out” like many of you think. See if he can at least earn part of his contract that he can’t as a starter
– Buster to first or 3rd
– I’m not a big proponent of Belt in LF, neither am I a big fan of Belt in the first place. If this is the solution whatever, I’d rather trade Belt for a starter and sign a free agent LF.
– See how Panik plays rest of year, sure the past 2 weeks have been a small test. This team has had plenty of guys come up and look like the next great whatever only to flame out (see Linden, Shierholtz, Burris, etc.).

Efrain

actually TL to the pen is most likely the guarantee on the list

channelclemente

IMO, it’s not so much about baseball skills, it’s about leadership by example. The Dodgers are skill rich, but it’s a wasteland in terms of character.

Ryan

My match for Belt would have been Starlin Marte, but Marte has been doing a pretty good job of trying to carry the Pirates sans-‘Cutch. And dealing Belt with cobwebs is tantamount to selling low. Who’d buy on him right now with risk? Susac/Hector aren’t ready for the full time load. So Belt in and out with Posey at first. Maybe they get Rios in the offseason as a FA or trade.

Efrain

@channelclemente:disqus so what makes you so sure that TL won’t go to pen? I hardly ever agree with you and on this one I think you are plain wrong. Are you one of those cheer leading types who doesn’t see reality and feels TL “will figure it out” or that the umps are somehow “squeezing him”? He is not ever going to be the same pitcher we knew, may never even be a 500 pitcher again.

Notsodamus

Boy,ain’t that the truth. My wife and I were just saying how fortunate we are that character is important to the org. And how awful it would be to root for and watch our guys if half or even one of the Dodger miscreants were here.

And speaking of my wife, as I said earlier, don’t bench Craw! She will boycott and ban me to the secondary TV.

Efrain

totally agree with @NoShame09:disqus if TL doesn’t get his NH he would have been gong to the pen by end of this year or sooner

chuk

The ball hits the catchers helmet/mask and rocks the brain into the skull. Have a contest among college/HS engineering classes, they’ll fix it.

Michael Scott

*Good ole George will be back- you never know- maybe as the next closer
* There’s no water in my creek so I’ll have to drown in the pond if I don’t like the LU. At least Merna won’t need to feed the fish for a decade.
* Bochy says we’re a sprint now. Morse got the word, a stand up triple!
* Things haven’t gone well for Nick Swisher with the Tribe. He’s asked to be traded to the Stolichnaya Shooters in the Upper Presidio League
* Something you really don’t like to see before 9 A.M.- flames coming out of the sides of the smoker.
* Cajun Blackened Carnitas, haven’t tried that yet
* Baggs also talks about a 6th, 7th, and 8th starting pitcher for next year. That’ll mean some young arms for the pen, at last. Hawkins and Jamey Wright should be both be available.
* Big Game for Big Time Timmy Jimmy Wimmy today. It’s not going to look good if he goes to pen and the security guards have to drag him to the mound.
* Memo to Susac- it’s illegal to block scuds with Brandon Crawford’s child

Michael Scott

Turner has been a disaster in the field. Love it.

channelclemente

Because, it’s not in his best interests. And unlike what your POV presupposes, he wasn’t born a Giant forever. If you can at any level confuse me with a ‘Lincecum cheerleader’, you either don’t read or can’t read anything I’ve written about Lincecum’s travails over the last 3 years.

Michael Scott

Whatever is important to you is what you have to go with .

MLBSF

Efrain do you hopefully plan on attacking Lefty today for her jubilation that Kershaw lost to the Brewers last night?

I mean hopefully not.

channelclemente

I’d agree with you to this degree, no clear set of assumptions about what is going on is reliable until the physical dynamics are known…and they aren’t at pretty much any level.

Efrain

Ok I’ll bite……why is it not in the Giant best interest? To heck with TL’s bed interest, he is getting paid regardless. You know his situation the past 90 games, blah blah blah… if not for the no hitters, his record is nothing to take pride it. The giants are stuck with a contract they can’t trade. Therefore the pen IS in best interest and gives TL a chance to be put in a position to produce

Leo the Lip

Hawkins @ what… 56 yrs old? Good one.
Baggs was much better when he was a game show contestent… he and Kontos both miss their Northwestern U days.
Baggs to Comcast Chicago when Theo finishes righting the ship.

channelclemente

Catfish will eat anything. At least demand a freshwater shark or two.

Leo the Lip

How about Pence @ five? Or….put Pence somewhere where the guy on base won’t slow him down….

Figettaboutit. He’ll stay put…

channelclemente

Wrong sense, I’d like you to read a bit before you say foolish stuff.

Efrain

@disqus_XLYfzxi5yG:disqus – hahhaha no not at all, I just figured Lefty woke up with a major hangover from popping bottles of champagne and dancing all night. Seeing that Kershaw lost for the first time in 2 1/2 months she’s had a lot of pent up frustration and had the champagne in the fridge ready just for this occasion. That and she prolly stuck a few more needles into her Kershaw doll last night.

Leo the Lip

Turner=Bad error last nite!
Their SS threw a “bar of soap” to first base (Vin Scully)

channelclemente

It’s all in Crawford’s hands. Maybe send his wife to her moms and focus and his job and sleep at night. Duffy is breathing down his neck, and frankly, beyond their health and welfare, I don’t care about his kids and family.

MLBSF

You seem like an Efrain imposter to me and I don’t like it one bit.
smh

Mr. Sarcastic

Remember when Orel Hersheiser was a Giant for a year? Ugh… I just couldn’t root for him, regardless of “the laundry”…

Leo the Lip

Tough gig
Pregame
Postgame presser
He was channeling Dangerfield

channelclemente

You take any insight from the fact Kershaw pitched a complete game loss last night? Do they distrust the pen that much?

Leo the Lip

Watching the Niners today E?

Ryan

Nah, just like the Houston days and keep his wheels in front of the doubles hitters.

Leo the Lip

welcome

Michael Scott

*”spend all the money signing Pablo”, I say leave a little for those extra 3 starting pitchers
*”sign back both Peavy AND Vogelsong” Roger that. I feel better when some of the players aren’t young enough to be my *grandsons*..
*”let Romo walk while Casilla stays the closer” at last, a spot for Hembree!
*” move Timmy to the bullpen”- Timmy says: “Make me.”
*”move Buster to 1B- he’d prefer to play in the 5/6 hole
*”move Belt to LF” where he can field Buster’s throws on the 3-6-7-4-1 DP
*”give Panik the everyday 2B job.” When Leo says it’s OK.

Michael Scott

He only threw 97 pitches but it’s tough when the pen is 2 deep.

DrLefty

Winnie is still sulking today because we left her for so many hours yesterday. Clingy, following me around the house like a shadow. That’s the longest we’ve left her alone since she got home from the hospital. She misses Lefty Junior, too.

DrLefty

Buster got some new mask this week with extra padding.

Leo the Lip

Wotus on KNBR

DrLefty

To be fair to Baggs, he was riffing the whole 2015 thing on Panik’s emergence, basically pointing out that if one problem (2B) is solved, that’s more money they can throw at their other problem spots.

channelclemente

Down 3-1 in the 7th or 8th, most teams would have used a pinch hitter, pitch count or not. Especially given the Dodgers scored 1 in the bottom of the 9th. That’s wing and a prayer baseball, I’d say.

Nate’sFanMom

Let’s get a winning streak going, boys.

DrLefty

I just read an interesting article about GMs, Ruben Amaro Jr. in particular. Did you know that only two GMs have been replaced since 2012 (and that includes the recent change in SD)?

As for Amaro, the article was speculating he’ll either get extended or fired this offseason. The Phils need to rebuild, and he needs baseball minds around him that are good at drafting and developing. But Amaro’s contract only runs through 2015, and anyone good won’t want to leave their current job to maybe get fired in a year along with RAJ. So they need to either fire RAJ and rebuild their front office or extend RAJ so they can hire some good personnel around him. I know what I’d do, but it’s not actually my decision (!).

Efrain

Yep I’ll be st finnertys today with the Bay Area crew!

Efrain

Don’t worry I have plenty in store for Lefty

Michael Scott

I didn’t disagree.

Michael Scott

Anything to keep Nate off their minds.

DrLefty

Speaking of triples, I saw Panik’s on the highlights, and it looked like he found another gear between first and third. He was moving!

I’m worried about your carnitas. I hope it survives!

DrLefty

Yep, they are not matching up well against the Brewers at all these last couple weekends. Doesn’t bode well for the Bums if they draw the Brewers in the playoffs. Even lost a Kershaw start; when was the last time that happened, May?

channelclemente

It’s fat chewing time. The Dodgers get Peralta today, vs Haren.

Matthew

Which makes one wonder….was Cajun cooking borne of too much drinking and too little attention paid to the flames?

Michael Scott

I’ll bet he’s grumpy at 5.

Ryan

Two would be a pretty substantial streak for these guys. Go get ’em. Keep the defense on their toes, Timmeh. Throw strikes, cruddy contact, etc.

2holehitting

So much 2015 speculation as if 2014 is over. Only a few games back with 6 weeks left. A good couple of runs and they could be running to the WS. That happens the same team returns.

Mr. Sarcastic

Two in a row at home hasn’t happened for a couple of months now. Time to change that.

Doughnut

I just don’t see this ownership and Front Office doing that.

Hopefully there is no reason to send TL to the pen. But the Giants still won’t do that even if it does happen. That would mean paying another starting pitcher to replace TL and then moving his 17M contract to the bullpen. They had to get 3M from the Red Sox just to complete the Peavy deal and have not made any other moves since then. They are not flexible with their budget at all right now so that is not going to happen.
I still hope Timmy can turn around his recent bad stretch. Its all about mechanics and strength and stamina for me. Hopefully he has refueled after a few extra days and throws a good one today back in the cooler SF Bay Area.

Michael Scott

I see that your pod arrived in the night.

DrLefty

Sazerac(s) + hot grills = Cajun cooking!

DrLefty

Win the World Series or play golf in October, the problems remain: Do you sign Pablo at the top $$ he will command? What about LF? Do you bring back Vogey or Peavy, both, or neither?

DrLefty

LOL. The only time Pence has ever been grumpy is when his scooter got stolen.

DrLefty

Get Mrs. Notsodamus to switch over to Angel Baby. He’s around for two more years after this one for sure. And he’s beautiful.

BALDHEADSLIK1

And how.

BALDHEADSLIK1

Good listen huh?

DrLefty

What IS it with Crawford? He started off so well at the plate this year. His defense has regressed. He was being threatened with platoons against lefties before the season and now he hits lefties fine and can’t hit righties.

Career growing pains? Conditioning? Too many babies in too short of a time?

I’m still rooting for him even if I didn’t like that ice bucket stunt with the baby at all. (I’ll just put that down to youthful bad judgment.) But–I like Duffy, too, and I’m even intrigued by Adrianza if he can stop being “Air-Head” Adrianza and be “Ehire” instead. So step it up, Craw.

BALDHEADSLIK1

Ok Michael Scott with a good nights sleep i see BOY ARE U ENERGIZED! I likes your post.

carmot

Funny thing. Do all the Giants beat writers read the GE comments? I’ve tried asking Baggs in at least 2-3 of his live chats about the money situation. He’s never used my question/responded. I posted the actual numbers for 2015 here about a week ago, right. Now he’s talking about the spending limit for 2015.

I think only Panik everyday at 2B. Dunno re: Pablo (Leo says stays). Belt only if we find a better 1B than LF player available. I don’t figure on Timmy to bullpen. I sure think we need to do better than Vogey + Peavy, that might cost us $20M, nah thanks.

Good Post Lefty. Many questions, all of which depend on outcome of 2014. Right now here are my answers if I am Giants GM:
No to Peavy, yes to Vogey, I bring up a young arm for the rotation and trade someone in the offseason for the other spot. Lincecum goes to pen. I let Pablo walk, movey Buster to third, Platoon Susac and Hector…Keep Morse as a platoon player perhaps, that is a tough one… we do not have many alternatives for Left Field or Center for that matter…

BALDHEADSLIK1

What about carp isn’t that considered a garbage fish?

Michael Scott

I am a very serious fellow or not.
I like your user name. Better than VladTheImpaler.

channelclemente

Let’s see what, if any, LF Belt plays during his rehab.

BALDHEADSLIK1

Hawkins former Negro League All Star Representative

DrLefty

If Belt plays any LF, that tells you what you need to know about their thoughts as to Buster and Susac.

channelclemente

Now what would have happened if someone suggested Carp. I’m not his straight man.

good point. One good thing that is coming out of this horrible slide is we are getting to see Susac, Duvall, Panik and Duffy and they all look promising to varying degrees: It looks like the fans were right and the braintrust was wrong on this one: letting young guys play to see what they are made of… Panik in particular is producing and looking very good.

I agree again.. The Giants seem to have that perfect blend of dangerous pitching and streaky hitting, mixed with veteran Championship experience that can go all the way if they make it in. This is why I love baseball, of all the team sports, its regular season is the most meaningful and dramatic….

Michael Scott

Ah, golf in October! Dumb Blanco will probably hit his ground balls then. Actually, golf is a very humbling game for most young athletes- sucks having a 77 year old win the round.

DrLefty

I believe Susac is going to be a keeper. I have a good feeling about Duffy, at least as a very solid utility guy, too. Duvall–well, the Giants have had a lot of slugger types at Fresno that haven’t amounted to anything. I’d like to believe he’s different, but with him I’m from Missouri.

channelclemente

Too much SoCal, who knows? But if he doesn’t get a grip, he’ll getting fat coaching high school baseball in San Bernadino before it’s over. He could move to 2B, but that job may be taken now. Day late, and a dollar short again?

I did not know you were from Missouri. What part? I really loved it on my cross country motorcycle journey last year. I was so impressed with Kansas City in particular that I am trying to convince my girlfriend to move there with me. It is pretty, affordable and cultured.. an opinion based on perceptions from one night and speaking to many others.

What a great bounce-back game for Blanco yesterday, and off the bench, yet. He and Panik (and the bullpen) were the heroes. Oh, and Morse!

channelclemente

They only have to win 11 games total in post season, and Bochy, aka perfect blender, gets that environment. Hammer time.

BALDHEADSLIK1

Show me state huh.

channelclemente

And Peralta, who pitches today against the Bums.

Eleuthero

Wow, you couldn’t be more wrong. I like Labrador Retrievers and Newfoundlands and dislike all foo-foo dogs. I hate scotch. I wouldn’t be caught dead in an ascot. Yes on the Bach in the background. One can have some refined tastes but be fully red-blooded in life.

totalfan62

Both of those players are Top 10 MVP, IMHO.

Michael Scott

I sent Zeke to the store for another Pork Shoulder. When a 100 pound dog crawls in for meat, you give it to him.

Matthew

The prevailing wisdom is based on his SS role in early college days…well before he had the Old Catcher Cement Company pour a load into his leg forms… But there is no credible proof he can/will.

Peter Johnson

I am sick of everybody saying Timmy to the pen, his biggest problem is the 1st inning, he has control problems, just because he did good in the pen in 2012 Post season, by the way he almost walked all 3 hitters he faced out of pen this year.

2holehitting

Born in KC Mo

totalfan62

More impressed by Panik every time I see him play. Kid seems to have that “it” thing. Takes nothing away from Duffy, who has also impressed. Susac & Duvall as well–You Gotta Like These Kids (redux).

I think he is a rare catcher who is actually a very good athlete and I think it is worth the shot, if for no other reason than it would prolong his career and improve his hitting. He is too good a hitter to be behind the plate any longer and too valuable to the Giants. Catchers today are mostly defense first guys…

Michael Scott

The real one:

1. Angel Pagan (S) CF

2. Hunter Pence (R) RF

3. Buster Posey (R) 1B

4. Pablo Sandoval (S) 3B

5. Michael Morse (R) LF

6. Joe Panik (L) 2B

7. Andrew Susac (R) C

8. Brandon Crawford (L) SS

9. Tim Lincecum (L) P

channelclemente

Sandoval is living proof that ‘pretty pipe stems’ aren’t a requirement to play GG 3B.

Matthew

….and you know every LA fan would go apoplectic, turn wolverine on Donnie TT, and quake in their Jimmy Choo’s if the Giants get in.

Obviously, we’d (all?!) love to see Panik up at #2. Susac needs to help remind Timmy of base runners. Timmy needs to hold ’em better.

I’m kinda shocked Revere is starting yet again. I mean, facing Timmy I’m sure he wants to. But I swear he pulled up at 1B getting thrown out two days ago. Hamstring. Yesterday there were indications in his movements/mannerisms all game long that it’s a bit of an issue. Not enough to stop him from looking fine running, I guess.

So glad we pulled through yesterday. But, yet again, there were some more chances out there we didn’t cash in. Morse’s triple, got stranded. Runners on 1B & 2B top of the ninth: Pence, Posey, Pablo couldn’t get it done.

Go Giants.

Eleuthero

So Timmy is throwing lefthanded … wow, we’re really in trouble. 🙂

Notsodamus

She loves him too, but she loves all our guys. But Craw is special. Maybe because our boy played ss, or because our daughter went to ucla. Or, he just so cute. Methinks mostly the latter.

Matthew

Now I agree! It’s an agreeable morning…specific to Posey, it certainly appears he is wearing down overall. If there is a chance to move him and it improves the Giants overall (that is the caveat), then move away…

You might be right. If the Giants get to the NLCS I like their chances. I don’t think the Nationals or Dodgers are championship caliber teams.. They just do not click. I think the Giants are simply able to play better than they now are and I also think the two best teams, two most dangerous anyway, in the postseason in the NL are the Breweres and the Giants. I think personally, the Brewers are very good and will go to the World Series, if you put a gun to my head and asked me to bet on a team….

totalfan62

Posey’s a good athlete who can learn the position if he knows soon after the season ends & has off-season & spring training to learn 3B. Johnny Bench & Joe Torre: two catchers who moved to 3B later in their careers.

Matthew

Haha…just a shot in the dark…stick around. We put the fun in dysfunctional

BALDHEADSLIK1

Whats up Matthew, yeah i remember him being a ss in college and all that but i do not see him becoming a decent 3rd sacker in the bigs not enough athleticism for the position imo.Arm strength for the long throw??

carmot

Panik gets moving pretty good. He doesn’t look flashy when running. But I think back to DeRosa talking about ‘cutting angles’ in base running and hitting the bags. I thought Panik cut his angle around 1B beautifully. He’s shown near 4.0 time to 1B, and on that triple, I’d be surprised if his time was much over 11.0 seconds. Not bad at all.

channelclemente

I suspect, it’s the smart move to leave Panik where he is in the LU until MLB scouts see him and change/try different pitching strategies and Panik adjusts. It’s usually a 1-2 week cycle before news scouting reports and film make it around. If he handles league pitching strategy changes, then LU positioning gets a good deal more flexible.

Notsodamus

You crack me up. i’d love to read some of your stuff on your poly or other stuff blogs. Well, depending on POV. No, it would be good either way. Good one.

Eleuthero

Haha. I kinda thought you were yanking on my flea collar. 🙂

Brownie

What’s the bet? I’ll collect in SD after giving you a thorough beating

Remember how many here trashed them when they came back to the pack? The season is a Marathon. Now with 40 games it is a Sprint.

Michael Scott

I do my best thinking while watching folks get torn apart on Criminal Minds. Enough with this Doomer/Polly stuff. It’s too polarizing. We’re all just layabouts without rich and rewarding lives…

carmot

So, you saw it too? He’s an arbitration guy, l figure it’s just losing games is losing potential salary value. 40+ SB would look VERY good for him. But c’mon. That right hammy. Each time he got onto a base, he was breaking down his stride gingerly favoring it. Bent over at 2B, then 3B.

PHI is racing for a top draft pick. Why press him? They’ve got SEA and then a day off later in the week. But a hammy that *could* pop, wow. Not worth risking in a season like PHI is experiencing IMO.

Michael Scott

Had to edit that when the original got moderated by the drunkards in the basement of the Merc.

carmot

I’ve wondered if Crick’s control issues come from him pitching as a righty? I remember once seeing him sign autographs and chart pitches… He writes as a lefty. I can’t figure this out.

Michael Scott

Remember Cain’s perfect game? He missed a pitch or two.

Leo the Lip

Pablo=Yes Brother Michael leaked it
Peavy yes
Vogey yes
I like Mike ‘Morris’ but the GUY I wanted when the hole was obvious was not Choo, was not Swisher, was not Ludwig, was not Morrison, it was Torii Hunter who keeps his body in shape like a 29 yr old.

Next yr = Morse + MacWill
YMMV

carmot

Another guy I would’ve loved to have seen us get, before he signed his extension. How do these teams get guys to sign those on the cheap? I swear, we never could do that. C Gomez, McCutchen, and Brantley to name a few. Dang.

carmot

There you go. I don’t understand it either. But others here have some varying opinions from me. His 13.0 IP in the playoffs seem to have many convinced he could do it for 90+ IP per season. 1st inning issues, not holding runners, and now his HR rate. Not a combo I’d want in my bullpen. But hey, others’ mileage varies.

Leo the Lip

There might be a back story. Guys like BLBonds bowl and sign autographs righthanded…

Grade school experiences use to force some kids to “be righthanded” in certain aspects.

carmot

I hope Puig never figures this out. He’s got all the talent. I think of two football players: Vernon Davis and Randy Moss when he got to the Pats. Became team players. If Puig ever gets there, he would be a real asset for LAD. Right now, he’s often only three-fifths of that.

carmot

Yeah. Khris Davis. Dude is looking good for them. *sigh*

Michael Scott

Goldfish and Koi are both members of the carp family. I used to have beautiful Koi but a wayward Egret got every one of them. Heartbreaking. Koi are very intelligent creatures who love affection. They quickly taught the goldfish to eat out of my hand. I’d just tap on the pond’s edge and dozens of fish would swim over for some chow. You do have to be careful to not overfeed them. In a well established pond they don’t need feeding at all. It’s a way to have a fish to man evening chat.

Matthew

If he were a switch hitter and it said “S”, my buddy Lucas would have said the S stood for feces.

Leo the Lip

Happy 81st Birthday to the Original SF Giant #12 – Jimmy Davenport.

Matthew

Such a calm and considerate Sunday morning on the blog!

Shout back at ya, baldy. What I am up to:

It is always a GREAT reminder and re calibration of ones perspective to attend and sit close to the field so you can be reminded of how hard this game is to play. We should all know and remember automatically, but we don’t.

Watching the speed of the break on pitches, watching the sheer speed of some (Dickman throws gas), the positioning and footwork of infielders (The slightest lean by Rollins on Blanco’s game winner…). The nanosecond of time for a guy to adjust and decide at the plate.

The TV and sofa conspire to numb our senses to this. For those who can recall the smell and the “sizzzzzz” of an up and in fastball coming at your chin (Dickman/Blanco), let us never forget: this game is difficult.

channelclemente

Sizzle was Kimbrel last night.

Leo the Lip

Holding Baserunners for 55 has always been an issue. He loses his ability to command his location. Only and I mean only solution – and one of them is unrealistic – don’t put guys on base – thus stay in the wind up.

* drastically alter how Long or Short he HOLDS the ball. Base stealers are creatures of habit. They don’t like their timing disrupted.

BALDHEADSLIK1

Old third sacker right there.

carmot

Anybody still recall Brandon Poulson, the undrafted local kid recently signed by MIN? Another guy slipped through the draft, Adam Whitt. Reliever out of U Nevada Reno, was a closer, more likely a middle reliever. 2013 Futures Collegiate All-Star, 2014 Cape Cod League All-Star. 1.00 ERA in 19 G, 36 IP, 4 SV, 12 BB/34 SO. As a middle reliever, he won the Cape Cod Reliever of the Year! Can pitch multiple innings.

Can’t find much in scouting report/velo/stuff. Teams apparently starting to be interested in him. He was draft-eligible, but apparently no team knew? I think he’s now a total unrestricted free agent, not tied to any bonus pool or such. Sign him?

BALDHEADSLIK1

When i remet my wife in 04 (first met her in 86 in JC) she asked me to feed her fish for her and me being the dummy that i can be at times over fed her goldfish and the fish died which moma did not take to well, she had this same gold fish for 2 years.You see im one of those persons that will over spray, over scrub over everything i’ve been this way since i was a teen but moma did not talk to me for a day or so afterwards and thats when i asked her to marry me. Smart huh? BTW the fish was living a very nice life until i came along which i do feel bad about.

carmot

Yes. For years, I’ve thought Timmy would work on holding runners- improving over his off-season training. He hasn’t. I’ve stopped ‘expecting’ this now.

I see Nick Kingham’s move to 1B, my eyes appreciate his method. Rotation of hips/feet in a fast hop-step. Quick fire. I think it’s shown several times in this longer video. Looks fantastic, IMO.

Michael Scott

“Such a calm and considerate Sunday morning on the blog!”
You talkin’ to me, Jack??!!

Leo the Lip

Please post some form of this daily 🙂

Did you and Fam have hotdogs, Crab sandwhich, popcorn?

Matthew

Only if you think I am, Cajun Master!

Matthew

Carnitas soft tacos, corn dogs, Ghirardelli Hot Fudge Sundaes, Blue Moon, followed by a stop off at the Momo’s patio for more beer…in retrospect, I may need a kale cleanse.

Brownie

You going again?

Leo the Lip

Damon Berryhill Happy HR day
8/17/97

carmot

Yeah. I’ve little doubt Posey would be fine at 3B, given some advance prep time. Get him back to long tossing, stretch out those throwing shoulder tendons and muscles again. He had a 94 mph fastball, long throws wouldn’t be an issue IMO. Footwork, and situational stuff. With Posey’s baseball IQ, he earns the benefit of any doubt in my book.

Matthew

Not today, Brownie! Tapped my entertainment budget for the 2nd half check in one epic day at the yard…worth every penny.

BALDHEADSLIK1

Crab sandwich is delicious!!! Had one in Pittsburgh California 3 years ago at the seafood festival, ol girl had alligator she said it was not good .

Brownie

You watching the 9ers?

Vegas Giants Fan*

I guess I spoke too soon about Duffy having a hard time getting AB’s. Next man up! 😉